For any landlord looking at employing this company. Please do not. They do not look after your property. The pledges on their website are just words they do not adhere to. And ignore emails and calls and generally dismiss any concerns you have. I own a property behind a property joey Webb is paid to manage. A tree on this property is seriously overgrown with large roots entering my property lifting slabs which now after 12 months of reporting the issue and my elderly mother falling and being injured. He is ignoring all emails and calls. Now legal action will be taken as this breach and health and safety. His inaction and total ignorance has caused damage to my property and injury to a nearly 80 year old and he couldn’t give a damn. I question his morals and integrity
Source: thebestof.co.uk
Reply from Sarah R:
Response from business owner:
Blank Space Property Solutions has made every reasonable effort to address this matter over an extended period.
The concerns initially related to a tree within our landlord's garden. The complainant first contacted us last year regarding overhanging branches, leaves, bird droppings and alleged damage to a fence. We responded to telephone calls and emails, discussed the matter with both the tenant and landlord, and considered the information and photographs provided.
The landlord arranged for their regular handyman to inspect the tree. Following inspection, it was concluded that the works were beyond the scope of the handyman, and it was suggested that the tree should first be checked to determine whether it was subject to any preservation restrictions before any significant works could be considered. Whilst engaging a specialist tree surgeon to remove the tree was also considered, in the absence of evidence that the tree is responsible for the alleged damage, the substantial cost of such works is not financially viable for the landlord at this stage.
Throughout our correspondence, we have explained the legal position that neighbouring property owners are generally entitled to cut back branches and roots that encroach onto their own land, up to the boundary, provided this is carried out appropriately. This information was provided to assist the complainant in understanding the options available to them.
The tenant has advised that they value the tree as it provides privacy to their garden, and we have received no complaints from the tenant or other neighbouring residents regarding the tree. The tree is maintained as part of the garden, and there has been no evidence presented to us demonstrating that it is unsafe.
When concerns were later raised regarding lifted paving slabs, we explained that there are several mature trees in neighbouring gardens and that, based on the information available, it was not possible to determine which tree, if any, was responsible for any root growth beneath the complainant's garden. We therefore requested professional evidence should the complainant wish to pursue the allegation that our landlord's tree was the cause. Subsequently, the complainant advised that a neighbouring resident had instructed someone to inspect the area and that a report may be sent to us. We confirmed that we would review any professional report received.
Despite there being no admission or confirmation that the tree is responsible for the alleged damage, the landlord nevertheless agreed to obtain quotations to have the tree cut back as a gesture of goodwill and to consider whether this may assist in resolving the ongoing concerns.
Unfortunately, the correspondence has become repetitive, with the same issues being raised on numerous occasions despite our responses and updates. While we appreciate the complainant's concerns, our position has remained consistent due to the absence of evidence establishing liability. We have continued to respond professionally, keep the landlord informed, and consider the matter at each stage.
Blank Space Property Solutions is a managing agent acting on behalf of the property owner. We have investigated the concerns raised, communicated with all parties, arranged inspections where appropriate, explained the relevant legal position, requested supporting evidence where allegations could not be substantiated, and kept the complainant updated throughout. We believe we have acted reasonably, professionally and proportionately in dealing with this matter.